We are delighted to announce that Screens 5 is now available for pre-order on the App Store and Mac App Store, slated for release on December 6, 2023—nearly 13 years since the debut of Screens 1.0.
Here are some of the new major features:
Universal App
Previously, users faced confusion when required to purchase Screens separately for their iOS device and Mac. That’s a thing of the past. With Screens 5 as a universal app, the experience is now much more user-friendly.
New Library
In the past, connecting to a nearby computer or one accessible through Screens Connect meant creating a new connection. Screens 5 simplifies this process significantly—no more hassle of creating and managing connections. Simply choose a nearby computer for instant access or log in with your Screens ID to reach computers registered with Screens Connect.
For those seeking more control or with specific requirements, custom connections can still be created.
Furthermore, Screens 5 introduces the capability to organize your registered computers on Screens Connect into groups, providing a streamlined and organized experience.
Additionally, a dedicated section has been introduced to showcase your recent connections. This includes connections made through a URL or Screens Assist (formerly Screens Express, more on this below), addressing a frequently requested feature from our users.
New Floating Toolbar on iPad
You can now choose between a classic, bottom-docked toolbar or a new, versatile floating toolbar with Screens 5. The floating toolbar offers the flexibility to expand or collapse based on your preferences. When collapsed, it can be effortlessly repositioned to any of the four corners with a swipe, and when expanded, it can move both up or down, ensuring you have ample space to manage your remote computer.
New Vertical Toolbar on iPhone in Landscape
Since screen real-estate is limited on iPhone, we are introducing a new vertical toolbar layout specifically designed for landscape mode. This enhancement ensures a more enjoyable and efficient experience when using Screens on your iPhone.
In horizontal mode, the toolbar is docked at the bottom.
Lock Screens on Your Mac
Unlocking Screens on your Mac is now a reality, bringing a feature previously exclusive to iOS devices. But there’s more! Utilizing biometric authentication (Face ID, Touch ID, Apple Watch), Screens ensures lightning-fast unlocking when needed, all the while enhancing security.
This feature is, of course, equally available on iPad and iPhone!
Improved Curtain Mode
Screens now possesses the ability to identify whether Curtain Mode was successfully enabled on the remote Mac and will promptly notify you in case of any issues. Additionally, this innovative detection feature ensures that Curtain Mode is activated, even after surpassing the macOS Login Window.
Type Mac User Password
Building upon the simplicity users appreciated in the “Hold to Send Password” feature, Screens 5 takes it a step further. Now, you can authenticate with Touch ID, Face ID, your Apple Watch, or use your user password on your Mac before entering it on the remote Mac. This not only enhances security but also significantly accelerates the process compared to previous versions.
And Many New Improvements
- Seamless synchronization of previews for your connections across all your iCloud-connected devices.
- Connection windows on Mac now remember the last display they were opened on.
- Manage your Screens Connect computers directly within the app, eliminating the need to visit screensconnect.com.
- The application now selects the most suitable authentication method if none is explicitly chosen.
- Enhanced Clipboard support.
- Improved SSH Keys management.
- Revamped keyboard management for an even better user experience.
- Experience improved support for Stage Manager functionality.
- Trigger Adaptive Quality during connections on Macs for an optimized experience.
- Introducing new initial scaling modes – Fit, Fill, and Actual Size – for enhanced flexibility.
- Customize your experience with alternate icons, adding a touch of personalization.
- Stay informed with new status indicators for Screens Connect computers.
- The file transfers icon is now visible in the connection window, allowing swift access during transfers.
- Import and export your connections effortlessly for seamless integration.
- Connection windows in fullscreen now use dark theme for an immersive experience.
- Improved speed and overall performance throughout the entire application.
These are just a glimpse of the numerous enhancements and optimizations made across the entire app to improve your user experience.
Availability
Screens 5 is now exclusively offered on the App Store and Mac App Store. Be among the first to experience the enhanced features and improvements by pre-ordering Screens 5 today, with its official release set for December 6, 2023.
Please take note that Screens 5 requires iOS 17 or macOS 14 to run. Of course, Screens can connect to any Mac running as early as OS X Tiger 10.4!
In response to the evolving landscape, we’re transitioning to a subscription model. This strategic move ensures continuous development and the realization of planned features. Your subscription will allow us to keep refining Screens and introducing the innovations we’re eagerly preparing to bring to you.
For those who prefer a one-time commitment, we’re thrilled to offer a Lifetime subscription. This choice allows you to enjoy the benefits of Screens 5 without the recurring subscription model.
Exclusive Offer for Current Users!
We’re delighted to express our gratitude to all current Screens users with a special 50% discount on their first annual subscription. Taking advantage of this offer is as easy as launching Screens 4 on December 6 – the day of our Screens 5 release!
As a token of appreciation for your ongoing support, we want you to experience the enhanced features of Screens 5 at an exclusive discounted rate. Mark your calendars for December 6 and make sure to launch Screens 4 to claim your offer and embark on a seamless transition to the latest and greatest Screens experience.
Screens Connect 5
As Screens 5 debuts, an updated version will accompany its release.
Screens Connect 5 introduces the ability to define a custom address when configuring Screens Connect manually. This feature is especially useful for users employing VPN services like Tailscale or those who prefer a customized URL while still enjoying the seamless convenience of Screens Connect.
Screens Connect 5 will enter beta in the coming weeks. In the meantime, Screens 5 will work just as well with Screens Connect 4.
In response to user feedback, we’ve rebranded Screens Express to Screens Assist. This change aims to provide clearer understanding and eliminate any confusion about the app’s purpose.
Thank You!
Since 2010, your unwavering support has been the driving force behind Screens, and we are truly touched. The journey has been incredible, and we’re thrilled to announce the arrival of Screens 5 – a culmination of passion and dedication.
We poured our hearts into crafting Screens 5 with the singular goal of enhancing your experience. We hope that using Screens 5 brings you as much joy as we experienced creating it for you.
Thank you for being an integral part of our journey. Your support means the world to us, and we look forward to many more years of innovation and collaboration. Here’s to the Screens community – thank you for making it all possible!
